1999 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE sensor

First Edition for Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual ± 1999
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1-25
In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag,
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the
right front passenger air bag.

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they
inflate, you'll need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don't get them, the air bag system
won't be there to help protect you in another crash.
A new system will include air bag modules and
possibly other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing
and diagnostic module, which records information
about the air bag system. The module records
information about the readiness of the system, when
the sensors are activated and driver's safety belt
usage at deployment.

Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag
system. Improper service can mean that your
air bag system won't work properly. See your dealer
for service.
NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver's or the
right front passenger's air bag, the bag may not
work properly. You may have to replace the air
bag module in the steering wheel or both the air
bag module and the instrument panel for the
right front passenger's air bag. Do not open or
break the air bag coverings.
If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as
water up to the carpeting or higher
-- or if water enters
your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller
can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then
you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air
bags inflate, even if there's no crash. You would have to
replace the air bags as well as the sensors and related
parts. If your vehicle is ever in a flood, or if it's exposed
to water that soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless
repair costs by turning off the vehicle immediately and
disconnecting the battery cables. Don't let anyone start
the vehicle under any circumstances. See your dealer
for service.

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2-26
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (
): This position is
for normal driving. If you need more power for passing,
and you're:

Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your
accelerator pedal about halfway down.

Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.
You'll shift down to the next gear and have more power.
NOTICE:
If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or
if it seems not to shift gears as you go faster,
something may be wrong with a transaxle system
sensor. If you drive very far that way, your
vehicle can be damaged. So, if this happens, have
your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you
can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less
than 35 mph (55 km/h) and AUTOMATIC
OVERDRIVE (
) for higher speeds.
DRIVE (D): This position is also used for normal
driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel
economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (
).Here are some times you might choose DRIVE (D)
instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (
):

When driving on hilly, winding roads

When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears

When going down a steep hill
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but
lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills.
It can help control your speed as you go down steep
mountain roads, but then you would also want to use
your brakes off and on.
NOTICE:
Don't drive in SECOND (2) for more than
5 miles (8 km), or at speeds over 55 mph
(90 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle.
Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (
) or
DRIVE (D) as much as possible.
Don't shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going
slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can
damage your engine.

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2-43 Lamps On Reminder
If you open the driver's door while leaving the
headlamps or parking lamps on and the key is removed
from the ignition, you will hear a warning chime.
Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the day.
DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset.
A light sensor on top of the instrument panel monitors
the exterior light level for the operation of DRL and
twilight sentinel, so be sure it isn't covered. The DRL
system will make your low
-beam headlamps come on at
a reduced brightness when:

The ignition is on,

The headlamp switch is off and

The transaxle is not in PARK (P).When the DRL are on, only your low
-beam headlamps
will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps
won't be on. Your instrument panel won't be
lighted either.
When it's dark enough outside, your low
-beam
headlamps will change to full brightness. The other
lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come
on. When it's bright enough outside, the regular lamps
will go off, and your low
-beam headlamps change to the
reduced brightness of DRL.
To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the
transaxle into PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until
you shift out of PARK (P).

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2-65 Safety Belt Reminder Light
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will
come on for about eight seconds to remind people to
fasten their safety belts.
The safety belt light will
also come on and stay on
for about 70 seconds. If the
driver's belt is already
buckled, neither the chime
nor the light will come on.
Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the
air bag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light
tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system
check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules,
the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module.
For more information on the air bag system, see ªAir
Bagº in the Index.
This light will come on
when you start your engine,
and it will flash for a few
seconds. Then the light
should go out. This means
the system is ready.
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the
engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag
system may not work properly. Have your vehicle
serviced right away.
The air bag readiness light should flash for a few
seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be
ready to warn you if there is a problem.

First Edition for Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual ± 1999
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3-4
Mode Button
Press this button to deliver air through the floor, middle
or windshield outlets. The system will stay in the
selected mode until the MODE or AUTO button is
pushed. Press the up arrow to cycle through the
available modes.
Automatic Operation
When the system is set for AUTO, sensors will control
the air delivery mode. Air will come from the floor,
middle and windshield outlets. The fan speed will vary
as the system maintains the selected temperature setting.
To find your comfort zone, start with 75
F (24
C)
temperature setting and allow about 20 minutes for the
system to regulate. Press the TEMP button up or down to
adjust the temperature setting if necessary. If you choose
the temperature setting of 60
F (15
C), the system will
remain at that maximum cooling setting and will not
regulate the fan speed. If you choose the temperature
setting of 90
F (33
C), the system will remain at that
maximum heating setting and will not regulate the fan
speed. Choosing either maximum setting will not cause the
system to heat or cool any faster.Pressing the AUTO button will display the requested
temperature, fan speed and air delivery mode for
five seconds, then change to display the outside air
temperature. Be careful not to put anything over the
sensor located in the middle of the instrument panel near
the windshield, or over the sensor in the grille above the
radio. These sensors are used by the automatic system to
regulate temperature.
The exterior temperature display sensor is in front of the
vehicle, near the radiator. The displayed temperature is
most accurate when the vehicle is moving. During stops,
or while idling, the display shows the previous driving
temperature for best system control.
To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system
will delay turning on the fan until warm air is available.
The length of delay depends on outside air temperature,
engine coolant temperature, and time since the engine
was last started. Pushing the fan button will override this
delay and change the fan to a selected single speed.
If you leave your vehicle, the system will remember the
control setting the next time you start your engine.

First Edition for Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual ± 1999
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3-8
Ventilation Tips

Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or
any other obstruction such as leaves. The heater and
defroster will work better, reducing the chance of
fogging your windows.

When you enter a vehicle with the standard system
in cold weather, select HEATER to supply air
through the floor outlets. Then turn the fan on high
for a few moments before driving away. This will
blow moist air from the intake outlets toward the
floor, not the windshield. It reduces the chance of
fogging your windows. If you have the electronic
system, the AUTO setting will do this for you.
Manual operation of the electronic system in the
HEAT mode will also supply air through the
floor outlets.

Keep the air path under the front seats clear of
objects. This helps air to circulate throughout
your vehicle.

When the engine idles for a long time, the exterior
temperature sensor may cause the system to blow air
that is too cool. Once the vehicle is moving again the
system will try to maintain the set temperature inside
your vehicle.
When you start your vehicle and the EXT TEMP
display flashes (electronic system only) for some
time, the system may need repair. See your dealer.
Defogging and Defrosting
On cool, humid days, use DEFOG to keep the
windshield and side windows clear. Use DEFROST to
remove fog or ice from the windshield quickly in
extremely humid or cold conditions.
If you have the standard system, use DEFOG and adjust
the fan speed to your comfort level. Use DEFROST
with the temperature toward the red area and the fan
control toward high.
If you have the electronic system, press the DEFOG
button and adjust the fan speed by pressing the fan
button up or down to your comfort level. If you select
DEFROST from AUTO, the system will control the fan
speed. Adjust the temperature to your comfort level by
pressing the TEMP up or down button

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6-18
2. Remove the air intake hose that is fitted over the
throttle body located near the top of the engine
by pulling the hose upward and away from the
throttle body.
3. Disconnect the electrical
connector which is
attached to the air
temperature sensor
located in the hose.
This will allow you to
lift the rear portion of
the air cleaner.4. After detaching the hose from the throttle body and
disconnecting the electrical connector, pull back the
entire rear portion of the air cleaner by pulling
upward and rearward.5. Replace the air filter.
6. Reinstall the rear section of the air cleaner.
7. Reconnect the electrical connector.
8. Reattach the air intake hose.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to
replace the air filter. the air filter and the crankcase
ventilation filter.
See ªScheduled Maintenance Servicesº in the Index.

First Edition for Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual ± 1999
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9-6
Inspections
Brake System 7-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Cooling System 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust Systems 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Drive Axle Boot 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Drive Axle Seal 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Throttle System 7-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Caliper/Knuckle 7-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brightness Control 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning 6-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cluster 2-60, 2-61, 2-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Lamps 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jack, Tire 5-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jump Starting 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Key Lock Cylinders Service 7-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Key Reminder Warning 2-16, 2-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keyless Entry 2-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instant Alarm 2-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personalization Features 2-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Resynchronization 2-14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Feedback 2-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keys 2-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Labels
Certification 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Certification/Tire 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Service Parts Identification 6
-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tire-Loading Information 4-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Identification Number 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lamps 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monitor Message 2-81 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On Reminder 2-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running 2-31 . . . . . . .
Level Control, Electronic 4-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Light Sensor, Twilight Sentinel 2-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lighter 2-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights
Air Bag Readiness 1
-21, 2-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning 2-68, 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery Warning 2-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System Warning 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Doors 2-75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Engine 2-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Gages 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Coolant Warning 2-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Washer Fluid 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Level Warning 2-74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Belt Reminder 1-7, 2-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction Control System Warning 2-68, 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction Off Warning 2-68, 4-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Your Vehicle 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locks 2-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-Lockout Feature 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Door 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Door 2-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel Door 6-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .